1972 BMW 520 vs. 2011 Audi A5
To start off, 2011 Audi A5 is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi A5 (158 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1972 BMW 520. (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5 should accelerate faster than 1972 BMW 520. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi A5 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1972 BMW 520. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 BMW 520 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi A5, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2011 Audi A5 (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 BMW 520. (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2011 Audi A5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 BMW 520.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2011 Audi A5 | |
| Make | BMW | Audi |
| Model | 520 | A5 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1760 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4623 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1852 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1382 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2751 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 67 L |
